We know it can be scary when you’re thinking of becoming an entrepreneur. There are tons of articles and books out there about what to do and how to do it and it can feel like drinking from a firehose. We’re gonna share some personal tips that we learned to get started on our dream and to stay motivated.

1. Plan out your week

   It’s easier to make short-term goals like 1) Monday after work secure business name social media accounts, 2) Tuesday at 7 PM research competitors, and 3) Saturday at 9 AM email graphic designers about a logo. Small steps like these feel more tangible and don’t overwhelm you. Before you know it you’re small to-do-lists creates a full-blown business!

2. Promote. Promote. Promote

   We are big believers of this! Being a t-shirt advocate we have multiple styles of apparel that have our company name and logo on them. It’s a great way to get attention, sometimes from complete strangers. This tactic is not only easy but it’s not just for a one—just wash and wear again. Additionally, you can sell your own merchandise so that your customers can do the advertising for you! Check out Perilous Printing services to help you with this step.

3. Network

   You hear this everywhere even from your grandparents. There is a reason that this advice is so popular, it’s because it works. We suggest that you not only network with other professionals in the industry but network with friends of friends, family members, even the complete stranger you meet on your next flight. Connect with them on appropriate social media accounts, hand them your business card, and keep in contact. Now we do advise to not be annoying. Just check in with them every few months whether it’s about their promotion notification on LinkedIn, a birthday announced on Facebook, or even just to pop in and update them about your business.

4. Be a step ahead

   This seems like another cliche tip but again it’s important and you can’t ever get comfortable. Always research what everyone else is doing and ask yourself, “How can I do it better?” This will always keep you on your toes. You don’t want to be the imitator you want to be the one being imitated and always one step ahead.

5. Welcome advice

   Some are better at this than most. If you meet someone who owns their own successful business listen to what they have to say. It’s invaluable to learn from someone who has hands-on experience and is willing to give it to you for free. Mentorships is one of the most beneficial relationship you can maintain so either seek out someone who is willing to give you some of their time or allow industry bystanders to give you a quick 101 in entrepreneurship.

There is plenty more where this came from but we feel that these five tips will help anyone who is ready to start their own business. If you plan in bite-sized pieces, promote your business, network, think ahead, and be open to guidance from others your business will bloom.